In a disturbing case of predatory behavior, Daniel Odubanjo has been sentenced to six years in prison for sexually assaulting two women on a train in the United Kingdom. The attacks occurred on November 29, 2024, aboard a service traveling from Shenfield in Essex to Chelmsford, leaving both victims traumatized and highlighting ongoing concerns about public safety on transport networks.
Details of the Terrifying Assaults
The British Transport Police reported that Odubanjo, a 27-year-old resident of King Avenue in Clapham, south London, first targeted a 21-year-old woman. He repeatedly banged on a toilet door while it was occupied, and when she opened it, he pushed her back inside, locked the door, and forcefully grabbed her wrists before sexually assaulting her. Despite her screams for help, the assault continued until she managed to open the door and attempt to alert a fellow passenger. However, Odubanjo pulled her back into the toilet, and it was only when she lied about her age, claiming to be 14, that he released her. She subsequently left the train at Chelmsford.
Second Attack on a Teenager
Moments later, Odubanjo sat opposite a 17-year-old girl and began asking her inappropriate questions before exposing himself. When he left to use the toilet, the teenager moved seats to be closer to other passengers and informed them of what had happened. Upon his return, Odubanjo sat next to her and sexually assaulted her. A nearby passenger intervened, grabbing Odubanjo off the girl, which led to the train being met by British Transport Police officers at Hatfield Peverel station, where he was promptly arrested.
Legal Consequences and Police Response
Earlier this month in January 2026, Odubanjo was found guilty at Chelmsford Crown Court of false imprisonment and two counts of sexual assault on a female. In addition to the six-year jail term, he was given a sexual harm prevention order. This order prohibits him from being under the influence of any intoxicating substance or liquor while on public transport, at transport stations, or on Network Rail property, aiming to prevent future offenses.
Detective Sergeant Hayley Whyte of the British Transport Police condemned Odubanjo's actions, stating, "Odubanjo preyed on a young woman and a teenage girl in terrifying attacks just minutes apart. Both were left distressed and traumatised by the vile assaults he subjected them to." She praised the courage of both victims for reporting the crimes, emphasizing the importance of such reports in bringing offenders to justice.
Video Evidence and Public Awareness
A video released online on Monday, January 26, by the British Transport Police shows the moment officers raced to intercept the train at Hatfield Peverel and arrested Odubanjo. This footage has been shared on social media platforms, including by blogs like Linda Ikeji's, to raise awareness about the incident and the swift police response. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by passengers and the critical role of community vigilance in combating such crimes.
The sentencing underscores the severity with which the UK judiciary treats sexual offenses, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals in public spaces. It also highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to enhance safety on transport systems and support victims through the legal process.
